Workshop practice: What is the correct name of the tool used to eject (withdraw) a taper-shank drill from its sleeve or spindle?

Introduction / Context:
Taper-shank drills seat in machine spindles or sleeves using a self-holding Morse taper. To remove them safely without damaging the spindle or drill, a simple wedge-like tool is employed. Knowing the correct name and purpose of this tool is essential for shop safety and efficiency.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The drill has a Morse taper and is fitted in a sleeve/spindle with a tang or slot.
• Standard bench drill or radial drill setup.
• Proper removal method is required, avoiding pliers or ad-hoc prying.

Concept / Approach:
The correct tool is called a drift. It is a tapered, flat wedge inserted into the spindle or sleeve slot (ejector slot). Light hammer taps on the drift drive the drill tang free of the taper seat. This avoids scoring the spindle and maintains alignment integrity.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Machine manuals and shop safety guides consistently specify a drift for removing taper-shank tooling. Many spindles incorporate a slot specifically designed for the drift to engage the tang shoulder.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Drill remover/puller/drill drawer: non-standard or informal terms; not the accepted technical name.
• Knock-out pin: a generic phrase used in other contexts; in drill spindles the proper term and design is a drift.

Common Pitfalls:
Attempting to twist or pry with pliers damages seats; using excessive hammer force without proper support; failing to clean and lightly oil the taper before reassembly leads to seizure and future removal issues.

Final Answer:
drift